The modern pickup market has been segmented for a while now between the traditional commercial and lifestyle buyer. Fleet managers just want a vehicle to meet their work needs, while lifestyle owners want a pickup to satisfy their adventurous weekend activities. This means either a pickup at its most basic, or one filled with the creature comforts and refinement of an SUV or sedan.

In the world of the Ford Ranger, the XLT trim is the middle ground, still proficient enough to do real work, and yet civilised enough to be used every day, including when the work clock has stopped.

EXTERIOR

The four-door pickup shape has been set for decades now, due to form having to follow function. The only thing manufacturers can do is leave their identity where possible.

As the Ranger has become a true world model, it now shares the macho, square-jawed design language of its bigger American brother the F-150, with its C-shaped daytime running lights surrounding the LED headlights. It looks like a smaller F-150. Importantly, there are no extra body additions to impair its off-road abilities.

INTERIOR

This is where the Ranger always shines. The elements all collide, starting with the cabin design. It’s stylish enough not to be boring. Amongst hard-wearing plastics meant for a long work life are leather and soft-touch materials at the key touch points to keep things feeling liveable. Practicality comes due to the space available for occupants and a good selection of storage solutions for work or private cargo. Passenger comfort is sedan-like, as are the convenience features. This is no bare-bones work pickup, the main items are either automatic or powered for ease of use, like the headlights, wipers, and dual zone climate control, to name a few.

The Ranger has never shied away from technology and pulling everyone’s attention will be the 10-inch touch screen running Ford’s SYNC IV infotainment system. It’s fast, smooth, cleanly designed, and simple to use. This is mirrored in the all-digital instrumentation that changes according to the drive mode, or can be configured to give the driver the relevant information needed. Connectivity is handled by both USB A and USB C ports. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto operate fluidly. Bigger items can be powered via 12-volt or outlet plugs in the bed. There’s even wireless charging available.

ON THE ROAD

The tech fest doesn’t stop there. To help elude an accident in the first place, drivers have lane keep assist, pre-collision assist, cross traffic alert, amongst the number of electronic systems to keep the Ranger on its four wheels. Past the keyless entry and the push button start, the pickup fires up to a lack of the expected diesel rattle from the days of old. The acoustic laminate windshield makes exterior noises disappear below the six speaker stereo.

For safety there’s a host of parking aids, a rear-view camera, and multiple airbags should a collision be unavoidable, all for peace of mind when doing family duties.

The Ranger downsized, to much criticism, a few years back, but the 2-litre turbo diesel has charmed its way into the hearts of the model faithful with its refinement and fuel efficiency. Having 170bhp and 299lb/ft of torque on hand in this trim, it has no problem delivering a smooth driving feel, never expressing any stress.

The power curve works with the chassis and suspension to provide a very controllable and confidence inspiring experience when on road, especially when speeds climb. Off road, the Ranger continues its unquestionable abilities. The XLT has all the main mechanical, electrical, and body engineering to make short work of challenging trails, whether for fun or work, with electronically shifted four-wheel drive, high and low range, plus a locking rear differential, all to maximise power and traction.

And that is the story of the Ford Ranger XLT. It’s not just all work, there’s enough ability to play, having not skewed itself to either side of that equation. It continues to be a top choice for those looking for balance in their pickup, whether they need to spend the day on the job site, or weekends hitting the local trails with their family and toys in tow.